Greene King site reopens as a Hive pub after £500k refurb

The pub, which is in York, has been renovated inside and out to expand and upgrade the space and facilities, including new furniture and fittings and a new bar inside alongside new garden furniture and enhanced landscaping in the beer garden.

Operated by husband-and-wife team, Simon and Avan Brind, who have more than 20 years’ experience in the hospitality sector, the Ainsty will conduct a regular programme of live entertainment as well as Sky Sports and TNT, formerly BT Sports, coverage.

Looking spectacular 

In addition to a varied drinks selection, the food offering will include traditional pub classics such as fish and chips, burgers and pies as well as pizza, sharers and tapas style plates with regular offer such as a 2-4-2 burger night and steak and wine nights.

The franchisees said: “We cannot wait to welcome everyone into the all-new Ainsty. Greene King’s​ investment in the Ainsty to transform it into a Hive Pub has been exceptional and the pub is looking spectacular.”

Aimed at those with experience of running a pub, the Hive Pubs franchise​ agreement gives licensees a ready to trade pub within a proven branded concept for just £5,000 ingoing cost.

Significant investment 

Franchisees get a minimum guaranteed income of £20,000, paid weekly, and a percentage of food and drink sales as well as a share of the profits in their pub and can earn a bonus on top of this.

Managing director of Greene King​ Pub Partners Dan Robinson said: “We know the Ainsty is special to the local community, so as a Hive Pub we have put significant investment in the site to give it a new lease of live.

“Combined with the passion and drive of Simon and Avan as franchisees, the pub is in great hands.”